Cincinnati -- The Kroger Co. reported a better-than-expected second quarter profit of $279.1 million, down from $280.8 million a year ago. The supermarket company raised its forecast for the full year, buoyed by its strong loyalty program and its ability to keep costs in line.

Revenue, including fuel, rose 3.9% to $21.73 billion.

"We are pleased with Kroger's strong performance in the second quarter," said David B. Dillon, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "Increased customer loyalty and solid cost controls allowed us to grow sales, profitability, and shareholder value."